2008 Jeep Compass Reviews, Pricing & Specs
Overview
In 2007, Jeep introduced the Compass to break into the car-based SUV market represented by Subaru Forester, Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4....
In 2007, Jeep introduced the Compass to break into the car-based SUV market represented by Subaru Forester, Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. Jeep chose the Patriot platform, which derives from the Mitsubishi-developed Dodge Caliber. They powered the Compass with an engine sourced from the DaimlerChrysler/Mitsubishi/Hyundai global engine family. The results are mixed. The 2008 model has few changes.
The Compass measures 7.7 inches shorter than Toyota's RAV4, yet it can seat 5. But there isn't as much cargo space (less than the Ford Escape, RAV4 and even the much smaller Hyundai Tucson), and the interior plastics are of the hard type. Yet, the ride comfort makes for a "tossable" good handling experience.
Most reviewers, however, fault the engine and CVT (continuously variable transmission) for not being up to the standards of the class competition. The 2.4-liter I4 makes 172 hp at 6,000 rpm. Reviewers complain that the CVT seems to soak up most of that power, leaving the engine screaming at 6,000 rpm under any type of serious acceleration. EPA claims 23-25 city and 26-29 highway, but one reviewer observed 19.5 mpg. 0-60 came up very slowly at 10.2 seconds. On-ramp excursions seemed to be of the teeth-clenching type, with the engine madly revving and the approaching traffic bearing down. The manual 5-speed was the preferred choice of available transmissions.
There are two trim lines and the optional "Freedom 1" full-time all-wheel-drive system that includes a locking center differential, but it is not a trail-rated system like the one on the Patriot. Jeep recommends its Freedom 1 system for daily use, including snow and rain conditions. Standard safety equipment includes brake assisted antilock brakes, electronic stability control with roll mitigation and front and side-curtain air bags.
Jeep projects that 60% of the market for the Compass will be females looking for an urban Jeep-type vehicle. However, the Japanese competition offers more refinement, though at slightly higher entry prices.
What owners say
"Overall, drivers appreciate the Jeep Compass for its stylish look and smooth performance, especially enjoying its gas efficiency and comfortable driving experience. However, many expressed concerns about limited cargo space and potential mechanical issues, particularly with the tires."
Great vehicle for a younger person. Auto 6 CD changer plays hours of uninterrupted tunes. Automatic transmission with manual (stick) is fun to drive and makes hills or passing a breeze. Just wish it was quieter, too much road noise for an old person like me.
January 29, 2015This is the 2009 Jeep Compass Rallye Edition i'm driving now. The Rallye package just came out this year - 18" Black Aluminum Wheels, Chrome Exhaust, Body Kit and Rallye Fog Lights mounted on the top of the bumper. It also has a moonroof, and the upgraded 9 Speaker Boston Acoustic System. Great on gas, lots of room!
August 21, 2008Performance - Runs smoothly, accelerates easily, great brakes Build Quality - The door rattles because the automatic windows were added after the car was made Appearance - It's a hot car, I love it Cost of Ownership - Worth every penny! Fun Factor - It's a 4x4 so off-roading, here I come!
October 19, 2009What owners say
Great vehicle for a younger person. Auto 6 CD changer plays hours of uninterrupted tunes. Automatic transmission with manual (stick) is fun to drive and makes hills or passing a breeze. Just wish it was quieter, too much road noise for an old person like me.
January 29, 2015This is the 2009 Jeep Compass Rallye Edition i'm driving now. The Rallye package just came out this year - 18" Black Aluminum Wheels, Chrome Exhaust, Body Kit and Rallye Fog Lights mounted on the top of the bumper. It also has a moonroof, and the upgraded 9 Speaker Boston Acoustic System. Great on gas, lots of room!
August 21, 2008Performance - Runs smoothly, accelerates easily, great brakes Build Quality - The door rattles because the automatic windows were added after the car was made Appearance - It's a hot car, I love it Cost of Ownership - Worth every penny! Fun Factor - It's a 4x4 so off-roading, here I come!
October 19, 2009I like the overall car just the back is pretty tight.And not too much room in storage place in the back.
January 30, 2008My new Jeep is so cute...it just seems to look happy. CVT lags sometimes, but I like being able to manually control the ratios to get it to jump. Not enjoying the fact that I slip out on wet surfaces. Not even sure why this happens.
October 13, 2009Trims & specs
Base MSRP $22,255 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.4L 172 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 22.7 cu ft |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $20,505 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.4L 172 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 22.7 cu ft |
Combined MPG 25 | Drivetrain FWD |
Base MSRP $18,225 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.4L 172 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 22.7 cu ft |
Combined MPG 24 | Drivetrain 4X4 |
Base MSRP $16,475 | Seating 5 |
Engine 2.4L 172 hp I4 | Cargo Capacity 22.7 cu ft |
Combined MPG 25 | Drivetrain FWD |
